Bars

Looking for the best bars in Edinburgh? Explore our favourite bars and pubs. Whether you're looking for a dram beside a cosy fire, an exotic cocktail in a stylish bar or a friendly haunt to enjoy a craft beer, you are sure to find something in Edinburgh which will tantalise your tastebuds.

Below we have listed a mere snapshot of just some of the best bars in Edinburgh, covering a mix of Edinburgh institutions and new kids on the block. We hope you're feeling thirsty...

City Centre Bars

Edinburgh's city centre and New Town is absolutely bursting with cocktail bars and cosy pubs. Head to George Street to enjoy a classy cocktail, or go to Rose Street and enjoy some famous Scottish hospitality in one of the area's friendly pubs. 

Scott's on Princes Street

53 Princes Street, Edinburgh EH2 2DG (Tel: 0131 342 1013)

A trendy open plan bar and restaurant in the heart of Edinburgh, Scott's is the place to be for a carefully crafted cocktail, paired with bar nibbles, a relaxed cream tea or afternoon tea. You can’t beat the stunning views, looking towards Edinburgh’s Castle, The Scott Monument and Princes Street Gardens.

Scott’s on Princes Street is just a few minutes’ walk from Edinburgh Waverley station, situated within Mercure Edinburgh City Princes Street Hotel.

The Cauldron

57a Frederick Street, Edinburgh EH2 1LH (Tel: 0131 466 1973)

The Cauldron is a 1 hr 45 min immersive class where you wield a working magic wand and use molecular mixology to brew drinkable, fantastical elixirs. After donning a robe and receiving a magic wand, you are led to an interactive work station where you learn spellcasting 101 by pouring a welcome drink of either beer, cocktail, or mocktail. You then follow instructions to brew two of our molecular potions that change colour, bubble, and smoke. Family-friendly experiences available at select times. Walk-ins for food and drinks are welcome.

The Raging Bull

161 Lothian Rd, Edinburgh EH3 9AA (Tel: 0131 228 5558)

Located on Lothian Road, this cosy bar is inspired by the eccentric yet good natured fellow, The Raging Bull and his friends.  As you walk through the door, directly to your left hangs a mural of The Bull himself drinking with his lady back in the 1920’s.  He has become accustomed to drinking his cocktails in comfortable and stylish surroundings. 

Expect rustic walls, marble tables, natural foliage and walls adorned with pictures of the handsome Bull when you visit. Make sure you try one of their famous coffee cocktails! 

The Bon Vivant

55 Thistle Street, Edinburgh EH2 1DY (Tel: 0131 225 3275)

Recently nominated for the Spirited Awards, the most prestigious competition in the global drinks industry calendar, The Bon Vivant (Thistle St) is the FIRST Scottish restaurant bar to ever be nominated for an award in the competition's seven year history. 

With an ever-changing cocktail list, a broad and accessible champagne list, a comprehensive wine list and a gantry stocked full of classic and rare spirits, it's easy to see why.

The Bon Vivant takes a unique approach to its wine list by offering all 44 wines by the 175ml glass, 500ml carafe or by the bottle. They also conduct blind tastings with customers, promoting smaller boutique wines and more unheard of varieties. Definitely worth a visit.

The Voodoo Rooms

19a West Register Street, Edinburgh EH2 2AA (Tel: 0131 556 7060)

The Voodoo Rooms is a bar, restaurant and venue located in the heart of city, tucked away just off Princes St and St Andrew Square (on the block behind the Apple Store). Often described by Edinburgh locals as a hidden gem, it has won a stack of awards since opening.

The public bar is open from every day and is known particularly for classic cocktails, cutting-edge mixes, rums and tequilas. Food is served in the dining room and bar until 10pm daily. The building has several venues which host a variety of ticketed events throughout the year - check their website for details. 

The Abbotsford

3-5 Rose Street, Edinburgh EH2 2PR (0131 225 5276)

Located on Edinburgh’s iconic Rose Street, The Abbotsford is very much an Edinburgh classic. The bar’s vintage Island Bar is very much at the heart of the bustling atmosphere on offer, not to mention the fantastic range of Scottish cask ales, the finest malt whisky and imported beers. If you fancy a traditional Edinburgh bar, look no further.

Panda & Sons

79 Queen Street, Edinburgh EH2 4NF (Tel: 0131 220 0443)

Hidden under a guise of a vintage barber shop in Edinburgh's New Town, Panda & Sons is one of the quirkiest things to arrive in the capital. Led by the award-winning bartender Iain McPherson, this prohibition style speakeasy fused with vintage barber shop offers some of the most innovative cocktails in town.

For even more inspiration, check out our guide to the top cocktail bars in Edinburgh.

Copper Blossom

107 George Street, Edinburgh EH2 3ES (Tel: 0131 297 2630)

Follow the floral stairs down from George Street to Copper Blossom, and you'll be greeted with dainty decor, mouthwatering food and an elegant cocktail menu with lots of tempting concoctions to choose from. 

In the summer, you can sit in their outside area which offers glimpses of Edinburgh Castle, so you can enjoy a refreshing cocktail while taking in the marvellous view. 

Juniper

20 Princes Street, Edinburgh EH2 2AN (Tel: 0131 652 7370)

Talking of bars with a view: Juniper on Princes Street also offers a fantasic vista of the city, taking in the mighty Scott Monument and beautiful Balmoral Hotel. Supping a cocktail while watching the Edinburgh shoppers go by is the perfect way to spend an afternoon in the capital. 

If you really want to try something really special, try one of their cocktails served with dry ice for a real Instagrammable treat. The 'Strawberries and Steam' sharing cocktail is particularly worth a try. 

The Permit Room

3a St Andrew Square, Edinburgh EH2 2BD (Tel: 0131 202 6406)

Welcome to The Permit Room. Its name recalls the Bombay Prohibition Act of 1949, which states that all tipplers are required to have a permit to consume alcohol (if only ‘for preservation and maintenance of one’s health’).

Hidden beneath the kitchen of Dishoom, The Permit Room pays charming homage to the best Bombay tradition of Parsi theatre and is a space dedicated to good cheer, great music and the most delicious and sincere tipples.

West End Bars

While this area is often overlooked, Edinburgh's West End is absolutely bursting with hidden gems. Get off the beaten track and discover your new favourite haunt in one of the capital's most charming neighbourhoods.

The Cocktail Mafia 

15 Charlotte Lane, Edinburgh, EH2 4QZ (Tel: 0131 629 1818)

One of the latest additions to the West End is The Cocktail Mafia.

With a cocktail menu consists of 37 cocktails, every spirit category is well and truly covered.

The bar consists of two rooms - the main room is a throwback to where the glamourous would meet in prohibition times, mixed with modern neon signs and stylish artwork. Within the Miami inspired back room (which is also available for private parties), you’ll find a tropical paradise consisting of cabana-style seating and palm trees to match the green & gold décor.  

Whighams Wine Cellar

13 Hope Street, Edinburgh EH2 4EL (Tel: 0131 225 8674)

Every inch an Edinburgh classic, offering a skilful balance between historic features and contemporary class, it’s little wonder Whighams has been around since 1983.

Whighams is located just off Charlotte Square, on the site of early 19th century cellars and offering a notable selection of wines, champagnes and real ales, served in authentic and relaxing surroundings. This Edinburgh bar is a favourite with the locals.

Teuchters Bar

26 William Street, Edinburgh EH3 7NH  (Tel: 0131 225 2973)

Teuchters Bar is well-known venue with Edinburgh's rugby fans, thanks to its handy location for Murrayfield Stadium and Haymarket train station. The pub has a huge whisky selection, boasting around 90 single malts. Feeling adventurous? Have a go with their 'hoop of destiny', Teuchter's famous hoopla game with the chance to win some whisky for yourself! 

The Voyage of Buck

29-31 William Street, Edinburgh EH3 7NH (Tel: 0131 225 5748)

Step inside The Voyage of Buck and be transported to the early 1900’s and home of philanthropist, polo player and world traveller William “Buck” Clarence.

The cocktail and food menus at this curious establishment have been inspired by Buck's extensive travels to Paris, Taipei, Cairo and Havana, resulting in a unique and exciting offering. They also have a wide range of wines and a selection of craft beers available on rotation. 

Heads and Tales

1a Rutland Place, Edinburgh EH1 2AD (Tel: 0131 656 2811)

A must for every gin fan, Heads and Tales is the flagship bar for the famous Edinburgh Gin. This intimate bar has its very own gin distillery, where you can learn about the art of gin distilling and even make a special batch of your own recipe to take home. 

If you don't have time to fit in a full distillery tour, you can still show your creative side with their Gin It Yourself (G.I.Y) menu. Create your very own unique cocktail by selecting your glass, mixer, garnish and serve. 

Want to discover more of the city's gin scene? Read our round up of the best gin bars in Edinburgh. 

Foundry 39 

39a Queensferry Street, Edinburgh EH2 4RA (Tel: 0131 510 6766)

Tucked just off Queensferry Street you'll find the hip and funky Foundry 39. This friendly establishment has a wide range of exciting cocktails to try, as well as an extensive food menu boasting sourdough pizzas and dirty burgers.

This is a great place to go whether you're looking for a casual drink or a full-on proper feed. 

The Festival

18 - 20 Morrison Street, Edinburgh, EH3 8BJ (Tel: 0131 202 8825)

After an extensive refurbishment, The Festival opened on Morrison St in February 2022.

Serving a range of cocktails, as well as rotational craft beers and traditional cask ales, this relaxed, comfortable bar also has a beer garden – the ideal spot for soaking us the summer sun.

The perfect excuse for catching up with friends, they also offer a great line-up of events, including Monday Quiz Night, Saturday night DJs and televised sport.

Old Town & Grassmarket Bars

Full of winding streets and steeped in history, you'll not struggle to find a decent watering hole in Edinburgh's Old Town. Explore the intimate closes and find some of Edinburgh's best kept secrets... 

The Devil’s Advocate

9 Advocate's Close, Edinburgh EH1 1ND (Tel: 0131 225 4465)

The Devil’s Advocate is a cosy but stylish bar tucked away on Advocate’s Close, a gem hidden in plain sight just off the Royal Mile.This bar and restaurant focuses on serving up the best local and seasonal produce, and has over 100 whiskies to choose from behind the bar. 

Love whisky? Read our guide to the Top 10 Best Whisky Bars in Edinburgh.

BrewDog

143 Cowgate, Edinburgh EH1 1JS (Tel: 0131 220 6517)

Located in the heart of Edinburgh’s old town, this bar is anything but old-fashioned. The styling is industrial featuring exposed brick and stainless steel but fret not, the atmosphere is warm and lively as residents and visitors flock to sample the now world renowned, headline grabbing beer. Perhaps unsurprisingly the beer offering is vast and not just from the brand itself, which can be sampled in a range of measures. 

If you're closer to Edinburgh's West End, BrewDog is still not too far away. They recently opened a second location on the corner of Festival Square, perfect for grabbing a craft beer after a show at the nearby Usher Hall. 

George IV Bar

54 George IV Bridge, Edinburgh EH1 1EJ (Tel: 0131 225 6936)

Located on the historical George IV Bridge in the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town, George IV Bar is a traditional Scottish public house bursting with charm and character.

They are open every day from 11am – 1am serving a wide and varied selection of drinks including over 100 different whiskies, a selection of assorted craft ales and sumptuous cocktails. They also provide a diverse menu of classic ‘pub grub’, with ingredients sourced locally and an array of mouthwatering dishes.

Sandy Bell’s

25 Forrest Road, Edinburgh EH1 2QH (Tel: 0131 225 2751)

"Purveyors of fine ales and spirits. Home of world renowned folk music." – The line above the door sums up what Sandy Bell’s is all about admirably. The bar, which is located on Forrest Road, is small but what it lacks in square footage it makes up for in character.

Sandy Bell's is held in high esteem by residents, students, visitors, generally all walks of life as it’s best known not only for excellent ales and spirits but for its live folk music, which comes in many forms every night of the week (twice on a Sunday). 

Epicurean

1 George IV Bridge, Edinburgh EH1 1AD (Tel: 0131 220 6666)

Located on the Radisson Collection hotel just of the Royal Mile, Epicurean serves aromatic infusions and colourful cocktails using home grown flowers and herbs from its very own EvoGro hyrdoponic. 

This chic and vibrant bar provides a true taste of Scotland with a fantastic selection of Scottish spirits and Malts, in addition to having some of the best mixologists in town shaking and stirring up the finest cocktails. 

Whiski Rooms

4-7 North Bank Street, Edinburgh EH1 2LP (Tel: 0131 225 7224)

With over 280 whiskies to choose from, Whiski Rooms is an absolute must for any whisky fanatic. Explore their collection and choose your favourite from one of the biggest malt selections in the city. 

If you fall in love with a particular dram, you can take home a bottle or two from their on-site whisky shop. 

Stockbridge Bars

Stockbridge is one of Edinburgh's most exciting neighbourhoods. Walk 10-15 minutes north of the city centre and you'll be rewarded with some of the city's favourite pubs and bars. 

The Last Word Saloon

[Image credit: The Last Word Saloon]

44 St Stephen Street, Edinburgh EH3 5AL (Tel: 0131 225 9009)

Coming to you from the same very talented people who brought us Bramble and Lucky Liquor Co., The Last Word Saloon on St Stephen Street combines effortless cool and quirky style (think paraffin lamps and taxidermy) with its slightly hidden away charm.

Like its sister venues, the cocktails are hugely impressive but The Last Word Saloon also provide an extensive selection of small batch spirits, wines and craft beers whilst also experimenting with techniques and ingredients to create truly unique mixers, syrups and bitters, which are all made in-house.

Hector’s

47-49 Deanhaugh Street, Edinburgh EH4 1LR (Tel: 0131 343 1735)

Hector’s on Deanhaugh Street describes itself as ‘an eclectic mix of upbeat city pub and warm, friendly village local’, and who are we to disagree?

The bar is an established favourite with locals, be it for a post-work pint or a relaxed Sunday thirst-quencher. Ales, craft beers, ciders or homemade house tipples – Hector's have something for everyone (and their dug).

The Bailie Bar

2-4 St Stephen Street, Edinburgh EH3 5AL (Tel: 0131 225 4673)

Sitting on the corner of St Stephen’s Street and North West Circus Place, The Bailie Bar is every bit a part of the Stockbridge community as its cobbled streets. The cosy, traditional basement bar is the location of many local events from weekly quiz nights to the famous annual duck race(!). This hub of community activity paired with a very fine selection of Scottish cask ales and an open fire makes for a very fine choice.

Leith Bars

Located to the north of the city, Leith has a thriving bar and pub scene that is well worth exploring. This exciting area of Edinburgh is easily accessible thanks to a 10 minute bus ride, meaning that a great night out in Leith is even closer than you think. 

The Carriers Quarters

[Image credit: Carriers Quarters]

42 Bernard Street, Edinburgh EH6 6PR (Tel: 0131 554 4122)

This cosy landmark bar can be found on Bernard Street at The Shore. The bar is as famous for its history (the oldest unaltered one in Leith, dating back to 1785) as it is for its steak pies (they sell out quickly!). Perfect for a lazy Sunday afternoon pint or a lively music session of a weekend – The Carriers Quarters is perfectly unpretentious and as traditional as they come.  

Nobles Cafe 

[Image credit: Nobles]

44a Constitution Street, Edinburgh EH6 6RS (Tel: 0131 629 7215)

Nobles Café Bar and Restaurant is a firm favourite with locals and visitors alike. This atmospheric neighbourhood pub, with stained-glass windows and cosy decor, is full of old world charm and modern twists. 

If you're feeling hungry, be sure to pop along and try one of their sumptuous weekend brunches, made with the best local ingredients. 

The Lioness of Leith

21-25 Duke Street, Edinburgh EH6 8HH (Tel: 0131 629 0580)

The Lioness of Leith is an old-style Victorian pub just off Leith Links brought bang up to date with a funky makeover. Its modern art and stylish twists have firmly re-established it as a cult favourite in the area.

"Burger Mama" was born in early February 2018 offering real gourmet burgers to the people of Leith.

Three Marys Bar

(Image Credit: Alix McIntosh )

63-65 Henderson Street, Edinburgh EH6 6ED (Tel: 0131 467 0833)

Classic cocktails, local Leith beers and fine French wine are served in the relaxed atmosphere of Three Marys Bar, which opened on Leith’s Shore in 2021.

Curious about the name? It’s inspired by three famous Marys thought to be connected to Leith’s legendary past. Why not visit today and make up your own mind!

Due to the Covid-19 pandemic many establishments could either be closed or operating reduced hours. Please check with venues directly before you visit.